PlayBeautiful

Merry Christmas! Here is our rendition of "12 DAIs of Christmas" inspired by @ACMilanBros on twitter!

*Sing along*
1 Pissed Galliani
2 Berlousconis
3 Useless subs
4 Injured players
5 Balo selfies
6 Free transfers
7 Sleepless nights
8 Freakin' retreats
9 Muntari Meltdowns
10 Matri misses
11 Generic pressers
12 Goodbye presents

Our Kaká is back. Our Ricky is back. My gosh, I love the sound of that.

On the arrival of Kaká, there were several different opinions. Most were positive; others were not so positive. I think we can all agree, however, that this man can make a difference at Milan. Kaká may not be the player that he once was but I think he can reach a level that will satisfy both of Milan’s needs (if not surpass it) and his own. I personally feel Kaká’s arrival will become beneficial to both Milan and Kaká this season.

His Career at Real Madrid.
Back in 2010, Kaká had suffered a knee injury that had affected his ability to play. His frequent injuries and loss in form had resulted in him being demoted down the pecking order. Not having enough minutes to play and constantly being benched had made matters worse for Kaká. The Brazilian obviously did not play a crucial role on the team as he would have liked and was not given much importance. I do not blame Kaká for anything. Whatever has happened to Kaká has happened for a reason.

"It was a good personal experience for me in Madrid, less so professionally. But it was a spell which helped me to grow, I matured a lot. I don’t regret the years in the Real shirt, but, seeing how things went, I did lose a little desire to play. The decision to leave was taken after speaking with Carlo Ancelotti. I didn’t play with continuity, partly because of the injuries, partly because of the competition for places." (via goal.com)

All of this was a learning experience for him. Now, there is a new chapter in store for this man, and it will be a second coming with Milan.

Kaká will have a greater role at Milan.
When it comes to his critics, I understand where the skepticism comes from but I think they still need to give Kaká a chance. How Milan will choose to use Kaká will not parallel how Real Madrid used him. This time, Kaká will play a greater role at Milan.

Milan will utilize this quality player to their advantage. Because of his age, knowledge, and experience, the Brazilian will be able to guide Milan’s younger generation on (and off) the pitch. Most of these players such as El Sharaawy, Poli, and De Sciglio view Kaká as a role model. In my opinion, there is no one better to mentor these youngsters than Kaká. He has already set the standard for these players. Kaká will have the chance to become the conductor of this symphony. The leader.

One can argue that Milan contradicted it’s principles by bringing in Kaká since the club claims to be behind a youth movement. I don’t think this is the case, however. Incorporating one ‘experienced’ player does not mean the club has went against it’s ideals. Like I have said before, Kaká’s role will be more than just a player. He will also become a mentor to the other players. Who else at Milan has a better understanding of the club than Kaká? In my opinion, he has the most experience among the players on the team and still has the potential to achieve the greatness that he once had, if not more (you never know, right?).

What his critics are saying.
Some individuals believe bringing back Kaká was not a smart decision. Among these people, the word nostalgia has been thrown around frequently. They feel as though the only reason Kaká was brought back to Milan was to please their supporters. If you call this transfer just another PR or marketing scheme from the club, I honestly wouldn’t care if this was the case. Kaká’s return to Milan has added more heart, passion, and drive into the club. I’m not going to say everything will be fine and dandy from Kaká’s arrival because there are obvious aspects that need to be straightened out on the team (i.e. defense). Now that we have acquired Kaká, let’s move forward and use him to our advantage. There’s no going back, right? Nostalgic or not, I think we can all agree that the return of Kaká will positively impact Milan.

This will be a clean slate for him so I’m ready to see what’s in store for the Rossoneri.
With that being said: ladies and gentleman, this will be the start of Kaká’s return. Welcome home, Kaká.

Written by: Laxmi Patel

Follow me on Twitter: @OfficialLaxmi

Image via Tumblr

I’m a girl. And I love football. But it wasn’t always this way. My love for the beautiful game started circa 2010.

I’ll admit I was never into watching sports. It just never appealed to me. I wasn’t raised in an environment where sports were a big deal. In other words, it was a foreign and unfamiliar territory. Most of the time I was focused on my schoolwork and other activities.

Three years ago happened to be an exciting part of my life. It was my last year in high school. I was a graduating senior. As cheesy as it sounds, I felt like I could take on the world. I was accepted into my first-choice university, prom was coming up, and I was acing all of my classes. The most memorable year of my life also coincided with the most important event of the year. One that makes the whole world stop. FIFA World Cup. The year I watched my first-ever football match.


I sat down at the usual table in my school’s lunchroom. But there was something different. Usually we only had a few television sets in the cafeteria, but today there were several in different corners of the room. There was no news playing on these screens either. Instead, every screen showed a stretch of vibrant green with 22 players kicking the ball around. A certain excitement was buzzing. It became a lot noisier. A large group of kids were fixated on every angle the ball moved. Hanging on every touch of this “Ronaldo” fellow. I heard a group of girls saying, “OMG he’s so hot!“ I didn’t know what to make of it.

With all the hype it was getting, I was intrigued to watch. Also, I lost count how many times I heard the words “World Cup” throughout the day. The particular match I caught a glimpse of was between Portugal and Ivory Coast. I knew nothing about the sport, but within 5 minutes I was invested into the game. The closer a player was to scoring, the more I felt myself caring. I thought a certain blonde player was pretty good. Who knew it could be so entertaining?


I had a whole month before I was going to move and in order to pass time I watched football. Even my sister, Laxmi, got involved with it. It was quality bonding time between us. During dinner we talked about tactics without even knowing what the word meant back then. One moment clearly stuck out to me. It was one of the hottest days of the year. The air conditioner was on full-blast and we were eating popsicles. Some men working on the roof were making a loud racket, but that didn’t ruin our day.

It was a showdown between USA and Algeria. Naturally, the team we were pulling for was USA. I witnessed magic when Landon Donovan’s rocket shot made it in the last minute of injury time. There was no time to react. We were jumping up and down. Screaming with unbelievable happiness. USA had booked a place in the Round of 16. Never had I felt so many emotions. Never had I felt chills. The message was clear: football was powerful and this was the effect it had on me.

Soon it became a ritual to turn on ESPN and wait for the next match to start. As soon as we woke up, we checked the times of all games being played that day. It became an obsession. I remember my mother saying, “You’re still watching soccer? Do you find this interesting? I thought it was over!“

We love football (soccer) and we want to share it with you! In this video, we'll discuss Jürgen Klinsmann's effect on the USMNT and the performance of the team in general. Help make our videos better!

“For me it’s Burak Yilmaz’s season. He’s scored too many goals. Burak is the best.” - Didier Drogba

When I see a player put on a shirt and play passionately for 90 minutes, I can’t help but fall in love with his demeanor. Someone who holds this attitude not only wants more from others, but also wants more from himself. Burak Yilmaz is the type of player who’s always trying to make an impact on the pitch. If he misses a goal, he openly shows his disappointment. Every forward recognizes their performance will be judged based on the amount of goals they score. Burak was Super Lig’s top scorer for the past two consecutive seasons and the 2012-13 UEFA Champions League Group Stage top scorer. In the league, Burak Yilmaz scored 55 goals in 75 appearances for Trabzonspor and 24 goals in 30 appearances for Galatasaray. His prolific season in the Champions League with Galatasaray made him one of only three players to score in six successive CL matches. He placed #20 on Goal.com’s Goal 50, the second Turkish international ever to do so.

He knows when to be selfish and when to be selfless.
Burak Yilmaz can play in a two-player strike force whether it’s with Johan Elmander, Umut Bulut, or Didier Drogba. Burak is able to attract defenders, yet effectively find a team-mate to get on the end of the final ball. He can drop deep, but at a moment’s notice pounce in the penalty box to finish the chance. In the second half of last season, the chemistry between Yilmaz and Drogba was undeniable. It threw defenders in for a loop. Their flexible roles allow them to be a handful for any backline, while remain unpredictable going forward.

A good forward has speed and power. A great forward couples it with intelligence.
Burak’s style is fluid, yet direct. He can time his runs just right between the centre-backs to put him in prime scoring position. Once the ball is at Burak’s feet, the true magic happens in the box. As a professional who knows how to deal with pressure, he’s in the right place at the right time. Yilmaz is predominantly right-footed, but also shoots comfortably with his left. As well as being good with both feet, he’s a fiend in the air. Burak’s killer instinct takes over when using his head on set pieces. He’s nearly at the end of every ball. His aerial ability is one of his best attributes.

Through it all he still remains humble. 
Footballers are inevitably compared to one another. Yilmaz’s fiery display of talent in last year’s Champions League had his skills matched up against Cristiano Ronaldo. Burak could only laugh it off and say, “A lot of people are comparing me to Ronaldo. However, my team-mates nor myself are making such a comparison. He is a huge star. It would be cocky to compare myself to him. He is one of the best players in the world. I am already proud to be competing with him.”

It’s subjective what you believe a top player possesses. 
Any forward can have these qualities. So why do I feel Burak Yilmaz stands out from the rest? Because he also has class.

“Burak could play for any team in the world. He is world class.” - José Mourinho

With USA moving up to #19 in FIFA World Rankings and Bosnia-Herzegovina at its best-ever ranking in its history (#13), this international friendly would benefit both sides before World Cup Qualifying resumes. Some may find these friendlies meaningless, but they are a good way to test a team’s resolve against top opponents. They simulate what any team could potentially encounter in Brazil next summer. Jürgen Klinsmann reiterates,

“These are top-class players and that’s what we like to go against. We want to have the highest benchmark to always measure ourselves up against.” (U.S. Soccer)

Here are takeaways from USA vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina:

1. The streak is alive.
The victory against Bosnia extended the USMNT winning streak to 12 games. This happens to be the longest, current streak in the world. It shows exactly how far U.S. Soccer has evolved. And it couldn’t have come at a better time. What started on June 2nd with a 4-3 win vs. Germany continues to spread positive vibes in the U.S. camp. A feel-good factor that is contagious to all. 

2. Magic moments produce magic goals.
When a goal-scoring threat like Edin Dzeko is on the pitch, it would make any backline nervous. It was only 8 minutes into the game when Eddie Johnson gave the ball away and Dzeko capitalized on a defensive lapse. Within half an hour Ibisevic gave Bosnia a 2-0 lead. The first half was uninspiring for the USMNT, but second half switched gears. Klinsmann was yet again smart with substitutions when Edgar Castillo came on as left-back pushing Fabian Johnson out wide. Eddie Johnson and Jozy Altidore were the striking partnership in a 4-4-2. There was a different sense of purpose exuding from the USMNT on the pitch. They had more possession and could find the space to create better chances. USA answered back with four goals. Eddie Johnson’s first touch didn’t fail him when he received a perfect pass from Jozy Altidore to put the Americans back into the game. This goal would be Johnson’s first goal on European soil. However, the man of the hour was none other than Altidore. He scored a hat trick bringing him to an impressive 7 goals in 5 consecutive games. If Jozy had his critics, he didn’t need to say anything. Speaking with his goals against a top team was enough.

3. When push comes to shove. 
This fighting spirit by the USMNT was exactly what Klinsmann hoped to instill from Day 1. Persistence and passion have the power to transform any side. Jürgen has previously stated that circumstances will not always go according to us. Ultimately, the team has to develop adaptability in key matches. The combination of playing intuitively and  intelligently will in turn make the odds in our favor. Earlier Klinsmann received critique for not providing enough instructions to players. His whole philosophy is have players think outside the box and put them in these uncomfortable situations. He’s able to guide them, but on the pitch they have to be able to figure it out on their own. Although it was only a friendly, this match models exactly what Klinsmann expects out of the squad. Winning doesn’t come easy, but a winner’s mentality makes it easier.

4. Introduction of new faces.
One unfamiliar name glared out at me in the starting lineup. Alongside Geoff Cameron in central defense, John Anthony Brooks made his debut for the senior team. The 20-year-old doesn’t have too much experience, but his calm and composed nature makes him a huge asset for the Stars and Stripes. The 6’4” German-American took on one of the best strikers in the world for 90 minutes, yet held his ground. Brooks explains choosing USA over Germany “was not a heard decision” because he could tell “the U.S. really wanted [him].” Another player who is highly-rated and made his appearance in the 63rd minute was Aron Jóhannsson. The 21-year-old striker made a one-time switch to USMNT over Iceland. Jóhannsson describes his style as “good in the box, good about anticipating where the ball is going to be, and being in the right places.” Indeed, Aron showcased all his attributes. He attempted two fantastic shots coupled with his quick feet and instinctive first touch. Both players won over hearts and could greatly contribute in the future. Above all, USA boosts its quality and adds depth with these new acquisitions.

5. Some things never change.
Although the attention was on new players, the veterans once again proved they are the backbone of the team. Tim Howard served as captain and he never fails in his duties. Bosnia could have easily gotten more than 3 goals had Howard not been in goal. He made crucial save after save and his reflexes were quicker than lightning. Tim Howard’s experience is key when reading the movements of opposing players. Michael Bradley is another player who had a terrific performance. The true visionary that he is supplied the perfect ball for the 1st goal. His pinpoint passes dictate the flow of the game. Bradley holds one of the most significant and under-rated roles on the USMNT squad. It’s no surprise he boasted an impressive 92% pass completion rate.

On September 6th and 10th USMNT will continue their World Cup Qualifying campaign against Costa Rica and Mexico, respectively. This match was just what they needed to keep the momentum going.

“It’s good for the guys to see we can come to Europe and we’re not here to defend, we’re here to play eye-to-eye.” - Jürgen Klinsmann

Images via Tumblr

2. There is never a dull moment when David Luiz is around.

3. David Luiz is great with little children.

Images via Tumblr

4. The passion for his team is undeniable.

Image via Tumblr

Images via Instagram

Written By: Laxmi Patel
Follow me on twitter: @OfficialLaxmi

“Fun, honored, and excited.” It’s all Mix Diskerud had to say after the 6-1 drilling of Belize at JELD-WEN Field. The opening game in the Gold Cup kicked off in Portland, Oregon and it was a special one for the Norwegian-American. Diskerud was officially cap-tied to the USMNT. To have a player like him represent USA means good news for the Stars and Stripes. Because the more I see him play, the more I feel lucky.


Mix’s playing style is one I have come to appreciate. It changes the feel of a game. His presence in midfield makes the team look more cohesive. In the last three games he has played, Jürgen Klinsmann tried three different formations including 4-2-3-1, 4-1-3-2, and 4-4-2. He’s been used in attacking, holding, as well as central midfield. Wherever he may be deployed on the pitch, he offers a necessary balance. Diskerud’s strength lies in going forward. Defenders resort to bringing him down with fouls in order to keep up with him.

Mix has to be given credit for using his spatial knowledge to his advantage. The attack flows through him and he can be seen as a playmaker in several situations. When Mix is on the pitch, it gives the USMNT an extra edge. This was evident when USA played against Guatemala, Belize, and Cuba. When Diskerud didn’t start against Guatemala or Cuba, USA lacked the firepower in terms of creativity. The key to his game is subtlety whether it’s picking out intelligent passes, making timely runs, or staying calm on the ball. Doing what comes naturally and not overdoing the simple things truly makes him an impact player.



Diskerud’s role against Cuba in the Gold Cup was a defining one. As first half wore on, the USMNT’s influence in the game decreased. They maintained possession, but lost much needed rhythm. After Mix was substituted in the 58th minute, the game changed.  Another one of Mix’s qualities is that he’s comfortable putting the ball in good positions. When this energy is on the field, it’s contagious. It was no surprise that there were more chances being created in open play. It was difficult to break down Cuba’s defense, but his ability to find players and exploit space worked in the Americans‘ favor. The team put on a positive performance, which in turn gave a positive result. Although it takes time to build team chemistry, Mix proved he is able to adapt and place his trademark. The World Cup is the ultimate platform and this is where Mix Diskerud deserves to shine.

“I want to be in the World Cup and I think everybody has that goal. I feel like I can contribute and I do want to.” - Mix Diskerud

Written by: Goral Patel

Follow me on Twitter: @goralpatel

Before August 25, 2011 we were unfamiliar with him, but all that has quickly changed. The inclusion of Fabian Johnson into the U.S. Men’s National Team has bore sweet, delicious fruit. A player I can’t imagine our team without was overlooked by many. But not anymore.

There were few who were skeptical about Johnson’s effect on the team. Was he really worth all the trouble Klinsmann had exercised to secure his services?

As it stood, not many people were convinced with Jürgen Klinsmann’s experimental approach. He drew in critics with his development of a winning formula incorporating more German-American players. It was an attempt to give the United States an identity in world football by giving equal opportunities. Whether you agree with Klinsmann’s methods or not, this thought process brought in the likes of Fabian Johnson to a side that is shaping its identity one game at a time.

“I’m used to left back. I played the whole season there with Hoffenheim. It wouldn’t be a (big) difference to me if I were to start there or the midfield. I just try to do my best at every position I play.” (The Associated Press)

Anyone who watches the USMNT knows that Fabian Johnson has become accustomed to the left back position. It’s where he is the most comfortable because it’s where he cemented his role at his club team, TSG 1899 Hoffenheim. When I see Fabian Johnson’s name in the starting lineup, I feel calm. I know he’ll work hard on the pitch and man the flank. He has pace, stamina, and makes use of his space.

When Klinsmann utilized him in midfield, it initially through me in for a loop. Johnson is an attack-minded fullback, but did he have the creative vision needed to thrive as a left winger?

Fabian Johnson has made 4 starts in midfield for USA (vs. Slovenia, Germany, Jamaica, Panama) and the team has won all four of these matches. Not only that, Jozy Altidore has scored in all 4 games under Klinsmann where Johnson started in midfield (via @BrianSciaretta). His standout performance by far was against Panama in the Hexagonal Round. USMNT supporters held their breath in the 3rd minute when the first chance fell to Johnson himself who attempted a volley. However, the moment of truth came when Michael Bradley charged with the ball, Johnson read the run well alongside Bradley, picked up the pass, and shot it skillfully to Altidore who tapped it in. The opening goal was from Jozy and assisted by Fabian. USA went on to win the game 2-0 at CenturyLink Field in Seattle. This match was a testament of how versatile a player Fabian Johnson is. USA has the potential to operate like a smooth machine because they’re capable of playing as one cohesive unit. The mentality starts with the players to build this within a team.


Jürgen Klinsmann recognizes Johnson’s versatility and believes,

“If Fabian Johnson can play very effectively at left back or left winger, he can also play in the middle. We need to figure out what is best for this group.” (The Associated Press)

This is an interesting comment by Klinsmann as I never thought of Johnson playing in the middle. Klinsmann is infamous for tinkering with the starting lineup, but he is beginning to establish some consistency. It’ll be something to watch out for if Klinsmann further experiments in friendly matches. Klinsmann should nurture Johnson’s foray as a left winger because he offers creativity and width where it’s desperately needed. Solidifying this position means he can only get better in that role, which in turn will bring stability to the team. The bottom line is winning and you can’t get that without goals.

Cut to the game between USA-Honduras at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, Utah. Honduras were obviously a different team than Panama, but it didn’t take away from Fabian Johnson’s performance. He featured as a left back due to DaMarcus Beasley being suspended for yellow card accumulation. In the first half alone Fabian Johnson contributed to at least three goal-scoring opportunities involving Eddie Johnson and Clint Dempsey. Fabian Johnson’s pace was what separated him from the other players on the pitch. He handled some great crosses with his left-foot and his excellent first touches came from his right foot. A goal was bound to happen.

The game-winning goal came in the second half. It was none other than the winning combination of Fabian Johnson and Jozy Altidore to make our dreams of going to Brazil a reality. Fabian picked up a swift pass from Graham Zusi and fed it to Jozy Altidore who seamlessly hit the back of the net.

The more I watch Fabian Johnson for the Stars and Stripes, the more I come to appreciate his work-rate, technical ability, and refined quality. He is an important asset for the USMNT who has quickly sold me with his skill and mindset to read the game. I have no doubts that he’ll play an integral part for the national side.

“Trying to do everything right is hard to do. But I try to give my best and help the team in every minute of the game.” -Fabian Johnson

Written by: Goral Patel

Follow me on Twitter: @goralpatel

Chelsea played the last game of their post-season tour in the USA. One interesting development of this particular match was that Fernando Torres was given the captain’s armband for the entire match. It made me wonder if this was some sort of subliminal message regarding Torres’ future at Chelsea. Should Torres continue building his career at Stamford Bridge or find greener pastures elsewhere? There are two sides to this equation, so here’s a breakdown of whether Fernando Torres should stay or go.



If He Stays…
This season El Niño has seen his better days in a Blue shirt. He delivered a total of 23 goals and 7 assists in the 2012/13 campaign. Nine of those goals in European competitions shows that he’s been picking up his form compared to what it used to be in the past couple of seasons. Rafa Benítez has been working close with Torres to rebuild and regain this form. In an interview with Grant Wahl for Sports Illustrated, Benítez himself said,

“[Torres is] improving his fitness. He has been working so hard in the gym, and his pace is nearly there. He's very strong. So he can beat defenders running, and now it's just confidence.” 

If Torres continues this steady progression in performance, we can see him build his strength as well as boost his confidence. You can’t deny the fact that he’s made some crucial goals during the season. When he’s hot right now, Chelsea could use it to their full advantage. Keeping him for one more year could be the test to ensure if Fernando has indeed found his footing. The further faith in Torres could see Roman Abramovich bearing the fruits of his investment as well as his belief in the price tag. After the departure of the legendary Didier Drogba, Torres was given a golden opportunity to prove himself. The introduction of key players in attack such as Juan Mata, Eden Hazard, and Oscar has transitioned the side into playing a type of fluid, attractive football. This meant Torres had to adapt to Chelsea’s creative style. Torres has reiterated to UEFA.com,

“Every day you learn new things and you change a little bit. You are the kind of player that you are all your life, but I think the key is to adapt to a new system, new players, a new style of football, and that takes some time. In my case maybe more than it should, but after a couple of seasons here I can see how different the team is compared to when I arrived, with different players. We have to be clever and focused in the adaptation of the new ideas of the team, the manager, the kind of football we're playing now. I think this is the main difference. I think my mind is open, more open than before, and I can see what I have to do to improve.” 

If he continues to bolster his work-rate and push his commitment, there’s no reason he can’t score at least 20 goals in conjunction with the attacking midfield. The chemistry can only get better from here. When José Mourinho arrives, Torres knows he’ll have to prove himself on all fronts. This should be enough motivation to display he’s a team player since Mourinho doesn’t like slackers. Moreover, football has become a business in the modern age. A sad but true reality. In a way, Torres is a brand for Chelsea. His shirts are top-sellers worldwide, which means his success can only help the club maintain its global image.



If He Leaves…
Chelsea and Torres have spent three years in each other’s company. Although one could argue Fernando Torres has scored 20+ goals, this should be the case when Chelsea have played a total of 69 games. Being the primary choice in leading the line, there should be no reason why Torres can’t score that many goals. Chelsea have played more matches than any other European side this season. In the league, Torres has only managed 8 goals for the team. Although he has improved his work-rate, a good work-rate doesn’t always translate into goals. It’s no secret Torres doesn’t have the killer instinct he once had. He doesn’t come off as a natural poacher in the box, which is a key element Chelsea could use in a striker. Torres has shown inconsistencies as a #9 with his lack of clinical finishing. It could be a risk to keep him beyond another season. Not only that, it could prove costly for the club to remain optimistic in the process of Torres rediscovering his top form. Torres has very high wages and offloading him could help the club cut their losses. This could be the time to sell him since Chelsea can capitalize on his present form. Those funds could be used to bring in another alternative. Roman could outright sell or use him in a cash + trade deal. Torres would most likely be sold outside of England, which would be the preference of the majority of Chelsea supporters. This would give the new manager a chance to sign another top name for the job. Some candidates linked to Chelsea are Edinson Cavani, Mario Gómez, Burak Yılmaz, and Robert Lewandowski. Although these players are unproven in the Premier League, they have the firepower and confidence to be a great addition to Chelsea. If the club decides to retain Fernando’s services, he may be reduced to starting on the bench or used as a squad player. Keeping him would mean he adds depth, but doesn’t necessarily mean he’ll have an important role. It would be in Chelsea‘s best interest to find a player who is of a certain standard. The standard should always be world-class instead of mediocre. It would make more sense for Chelsea to find a player who already highlights their philosophy. In other words, the player should fit the club’s needs instead of the club trying to fit the player’s needs.

Like the two sides of any coin, every situation presents itself with pros and cons. The decision to keep Torres or to sell him is a complex one. According to The Telegraph, Torres has been reinvigorated with a “sense of importance” at Chelsea. He’s been showing his goal-scoring prowess, but at the same time has not reached the level he is very eager to find with the Blues. His future may be out of his hands, but he hasn’t let the optimism slip through his fingers. It is Fernando Torres’ words that echo, “the best goal is yet to come.” 

Written by: Goral Patel

Follow me on Twitter: @goralpatel 

I clenched my fists and cried in agony as I watched the last few minutes of the Copa del Rey. Was this really happening? I knew once Ronaldo received his red card, all hope was gone. The final whistle eventually blew and Atlético Madrid were crowned the new Copa del Rey title holders. I was not happy. We were so close, yet so far.

Looking back, I was not mad that Atlético had won. This was an enormous accomplishment for them and I am proud of them. I was upset at the fact that Real Madrid had so much to prove this season, and due to unfavorable circumstances, Real Madrid were incapable of attaining at least one trophy. The Copa del Rey trophy was our last hope and it had slipped right through our fingers.

It’s not even about the trophies (okay, maybe a little but not completely). I came into this season thinking that this will be Real Madrid’s year. Having strong players and a strong-minded manager, like Mourinho, meant that we would go into this season with a bang. I was also confident Real Madrid were going to win the Champions League. With so much high expectations, Real Madrid ultimately fell short.

Should “The Special One” stay or go?

The big question right now is whether Mourinho will stay or choose to leave. Personally, I think he will stay for one more season at Madrid. Many people speculate that Mourinho will make a return to England and manage Chelsea. As a Chelsea supporter, I am conflicted with this report. I would love to see Mourinho come back to Stamford Bridge and work his magic on the new players, however, my gut feeling tells me otherwise.

Mourinho is someone who departs a club on a high note. Right after Real Madrid’s loss to Atlético, Mourinho stated in his press conference “this was the worst season of [his] career.” Not to discredit his two previous seasons that were successful, but I do not think that it is in his best interest to leave a club in this kind of state. Staying for one more season could allow Mourinho to undo some damage to the club. He is contracted to stay for three more years at the club (although he can make negotiations with the president if he wishes to leave).

At the moment, there are reports that state Carlo Ancelotti will not return to PSG next season. This only strengthens the “Carlo to Real Madrid” rumors since the club has shown some interest in Ancelotti. If this is true then there is a very good chance Mourinho will leave Real Madrid and return to Chelsea. Nothing is for certain right now, but whichever club Mourinho decides to manage I wish him the best of luck.

Written by: Laxmi Patel

Follow me on twitter: @OfficialLaxmi

image via Real Madrid